MADRID (AP) — Seeking retribution in the latest “clasico” showdown against Barcelona, Real Madrid ended up suffering another humiliating defeat. The Spanish giants fell 5-2 to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final held in Saudi Arabia on Sunday, adding to their woes following a 4-0 loss at home to Barcelona in the Spanish league back in October.
Kylian Mbappé struck first for Madrid in his second clasico appearance, giving his team an early lead. However, Barcelona swiftly turned the tide with goals coming from Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha – who netted a brace – and Alejandro Balde. Rodrygo managed to pull one back for Madrid in the second half after Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny was shown a red card early in the second period.
Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid made history by securing a club-record 14th consecutive victory with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Osasuna on Sunday, propelling them to the top of the Spanish league standings at the midway point of the season. Julián Álvarez found the back of the net in the 55th minute at the Metropolitano stadium to clinch the milestone win for Atletico, putting them one point ahead of second-placed Madrid. Diego Simeone’s squad now holds a comfortable six-point advantage over third-placed Barcelona.
Atletico’s remarkable winning streak spans across all competitions since October, with their last defeat coming in a narrow 1-0 loss to Real Betis in the Spanish league on October 27. Eight of their victories have been registered in the league campaign. Speaking on the achievement, Simeone highlighted the dedication and effort put in by the team, stating, “It’s an important streak to show the growth of this club. We have been working really hard.”
On the other hand, Osasuna extended their winless run in the league to seven games, leaving them in the 11th position. In other league fixtures on Sunday, 15th-placed Getafe secured a 2-1 victory over 14th-placed Las Palmas.
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